Why aren't more New Jerseyans using paid family leave? | Opinion

Bonding time between a parent and child is critical in the first year of a baby's life.

New Jersey believes it.

We are one of four states offering paid family leave for new parents. Here in the Garden State we understand that stronger families mean stronger communities. Stronger communities mean a stronger state as a whole.

With over 300,000 infants and toddlers in New Jersey, now more than ever, working parents deserve greater support under the law to be able to provide without hesitation or job penalty the needs of their newborn.

Babies Count, a report recently released by the Advocates for Children of New Jersey, highlights the steps New Jersey has taken to ensure families can take family leave as well as the need to go further.

The report highlighted that, unfortunately, not enough parents partake in this program for primarily two reasons: the fear of losing their job and the fact that the weekly benefit doesn't cover their bills.

Less than 27,000 employees have filed claims for family leave in New Jersey since 2016, a number in stark contrast to the number of workers who may be eligible for the program. And currently, employees of companies with fewer than 50 employees receive six weeks and a maximum of $633 a week, which is not long enough to cover the vital three months suggested for breastfeeding and an amount that may barely cover the average family's household expenses.

It is also important to note: Most parents who have participated in the state's family program are likely to be in the higher income bracket and have a college degree. We must encourage more families -- of all cultural and economic backgrounds -- to take part in the benefits of family leave. A child who is well-cared-for in the first years of life is a child who has a greater chance of being academically successful and, therefore, having a brighter future.

The current family-leave program is a good start. However, we can go a little further to help parents.

Legislation (A3975) under consideration in the Assembly -- which has cleared the Assembly Labor Committee -- would do more for families.

Beyond providing for families whose primary caregivers include siblings, grandparents, grandchildren and parents-in-law, the bill extends family-leave benefits to parents with adopted children, foster children or children conceived through surrogacy or similar agreements.

The bill also increases the maximum benefit monetary amount, the leave time a parent can take and how long a family can receive benefits. It would also put laws in place to ensure job protection and ward against retaliation. No parents should have to choose between raising their families and keeping their job.

Keeping families first is a priority in New Jersey. A strong family-leave program is necessary to helping families at an important time in their lives. Having the option to be at home with your newborn is as priceless as the gift of life itself.

Annette Quijano is a member of the New Jersey General Assembly representing the 20th Legislative District, which encompasses parts of Union County. She is the primary sponsor of A3975.